Fox announces details for DeSantis, Newsom debate

Fox News has announced details of its planned debate between Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis later this month.

The event, which the network is billing as “DeSantis vs. Newsom: The Great Red vs. Blue State Debate,” will take place at 9 p.m. Nov. 30 and span 90 minutes.

Moderated by leading prime-time pundit Sean Hannity, the debate will be presented live from Alpharetta, Ga., but will not feature an audience in attendance.

The goal of the event is to “examine the vastly different approaches the two governors have and offer insights into their political philosophies as well as ambitions for the nation,” the network said, previewing that Hannity will highlight a variety of issues in each state, “including the economy, the border, immigration, crime, and inflation.”

The lack of an audience in attendance will allow the governors equal opportunity to respond and address each issue, Fox said.

DeSantis is a candidate for the Republican nomination for president, but he trails far behind former President Trump in most national polls. Newsom, meanwhile, has seen his political profile rise quickly but has ruled out a bid to challenge President Biden for the Democratic Party’s nomination in 2024.

The two governors initially agreed to a debate moderated by Hannity and broadcast on Fox earlier this fall.